How to Determine the Value of a 1987 Pickup

by Arthur Barnhouse

Whether you’re buying or selling a 1987 pickup, it’s imperative to know the vehicle’s true value. If you’re selling the truck, you don’t want to lose hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars by letting it go too cheap. Of course, you don’t want to take advantage of an uninformed buyer. If you’re the buyer, knowledge is power. The more you’re able to learn about the truck and how much it’s worth, the more likely you’ll be to walk away with a bargain. Either way, finding out the value of an ‘87 truck is a relatively simple task.

Step 1

Inspect the truck to assess its shape. Check the odometer and write down how many miles have been put on the pickup. If you have the title, look over it and ensure that it has not been salvaged or reconstructed, as this will reduce the value of the truck. If you’re buying the truck and don’t have a title, ask the seller. He or she must disclose whether the truck has a clean title.

Step 2

Go to “NadaGuides.com” to access the National Automobile Dealers Association’s website. This is a free service which provides information as to the value of a vehicle. Click on “Classic Cars” at the top of the page. (Believe it or not, a 1987 vehicle is considered a classic.)

Step 3

Enter your ZIP code at the prompt. This is important, as the value of a vehicle depends on its location.

Step 4

Select “Trucks, Vans and SUVs” from the available choices. You will be taken to the next screen where you must choose the make of your 1987 pickup. Click on your truck’s manufacturer to continue.

Step 5

Select your truck’s year. Next, you’ll be asked to choose the model and trim of your truck. Click on the selection that most closely matches your truck.

Step 6

Click on the options equipped on your ‘87 truck. For example, what type of engine it has and whether it has air conditioning and other power options. Select all that apply and click on “Get Used Value” at the bottom of the page.

Apply what you learned from your earlier inspection of the truck to one of three values given. If your truck is working, but has high mileage, needs only minor repairs and can be considered a daily driver, you should probably look at the “low retail” value given. If your truck is in good condition, with low to moderate mileage, and needs no repairs, note the “average retail” value. If your truck is in excellent condition, has low miles or is completely restored, you should apply the “high retail” value.

This article was written by the It Still Runs team, copy edited and fact checked through a multi-point auditing system, in efforts to ensure our readers only receive the best information. To submit your questions or ideas, or to simply learn more about It Still Runs, contact us.